Creamy Cherry Strudel Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of juicy cherries and creamy filling wrapped in golden, flaky pastry—and that’s exactly what you get with this Creamy Cherry Strudel. It’s a showstopper dessert that looks beautifully intricate, yet is so much simpler to pull off than you’d expect. Whether you’re planning a festive brunch or want to sweeten up your Sunday afternoon, Creamy Cherry Strudel delivers all the elegance and comfort of a homemade European pastry. Picture tangy-sweet cherries mingling with vanilla-kissed cream cheese, all enveloped in warm, buttery puff pastry. When you slice into it, each bite is a glorious cascade of flavors and textures you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this strudel is in its straightforward list of ingredients—each one is chosen to contribute something special, whether it’s richness, tang, or a pop of color. Gather these pantry staples, and you’ll be well on your way to a dreamy Creamy Cherry Strudel that tastes like it came straight from a European bakery.
- Puff pastry sheet: The secret to that irresistible flaky, golden crust—just thaw it thoroughly before rolling out.
- Cherry pie filling: Bursts of sweet-tart cherries are at the heart of this strudel—store-bought keeps things easy, but you can use homemade if you’re feeling fancy.
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives the filling its luxuriously smooth, creamy base and a hint of tang.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness to the cream cheese for a balanced filling.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla makes the flavors sing and adds warmth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Creates that perfect glossy, golden finish on the strudel as it bakes.
- Milk (for egg wash): Loosens up the egg wash a touch for more even brushing and gorgeous sheen.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): A dainty shower over the finished strudel adds the prettiest finishing touch and a hint more sweetness.
How to Make Creamy Cherry Strudel
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—a simple step that keeps your Creamy Cherry Strudel from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. A properly heated oven and prepped pan set you up for a perfectly baked, golden pastry.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth, with no lumps remaining. This creamy layer is the secret that makes every bite so decadently delicious.
Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unfold your thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out gently with a rolling pin—just enough to even out the edges and make a slightly larger rectangle. This helps ensure all your luscious filling will be perfectly hugged by pastry.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Spread your cream cheese mixture down the center third of the puff pastry, leaving the sides uncovered. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly on top of the cream cheese. Don’t worry if a few cherries escape the edges—imperfection only adds to its homespun charm!
Step 5: Braid and Shape the Strudel
With a sharp knife, cut slits about 1 inch apart along both sides of the pastry, from the outer edge toward the filling (but not through it). Fold the strips over the filling in a crisscross pattern, alternating left and right, to create a lovely braided look. Gently transfer your assembled strudel to the prepared baking sheet—an extra set of hands or a metal spatula can help if needed.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake
Whisk together the egg and milk in a small bowl. Brush this egg wash lightly over the top and sides of your strudel, giving it that gorgeous golden shine. Pop your Creamy Cherry Strudel into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until puffed and deeply golden brown. The aroma at this stage is pure bliss!
Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Serve
Let your baked strudel cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes. This makes slicing neat and keeps the filling set. If you like, dust the whole strudel with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of elegance. Slice and enjoy every creamy, cherry-filled bite.
How to Serve Creamy Cherry Strudel
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always a classic move, catching the light and turning each slice into a bakery-worthy treat. For a pop of color and brightness, scatter a few fresh cherry halves or mint leaves over the strudel just before serving. A dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream never fails to bring the experience over the top.
Side Dishes
Creamy Cherry Strudel shines wonderfully on its own, but if you’re serving a full brunch spread, try pairing it with fresh fruit salad, a side of creamy Greek yogurt, or scrambled eggs for a sweet-savory balance. For afternoon tea or dessert, a pot of hot coffee or fruity herbal tea is the perfect complement to every flaky, cherry-laden bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, slice the strudel into delicate fingers and arrange them in a fan on a platter, drizzled with a bit of cherry syrup or chocolate sauce. If you’re hosting, top each slice with an edible flower or vibrant berries for a show-stopping finish. Want a mini version? Make individual Creamy Cherry Strudels by cutting the puff pastry into smaller rectangles and braiding each one!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply pop them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The Creamy Cherry Strudel keeps beautifully for up to three days, with the filling staying luscious and the pastry retaining its flakiness, especially if you keep it wrapped.
Freezing
You can freeze baked Creamy Cherry Strudel: allow it to cool completely, then wrap slices tightly in foil and store in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you’ll have a homemade treat ready for instant dessert cravings.
Reheating
To recapture the crisp, bakery-fresh texture, reheat leftover strudel in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Skip the microwave if you can, as it tends to soften the pastry rather than keeping it crispy and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Just pit and slice your cherries, then toss them with a bit of sugar and a touch of cornstarch to thicken. Cook briefly until glossy and syrupy, then use as you would the canned filling for your Creamy Cherry Strudel.
What if I don’t have puff pastry?
Puff pastry is ideal for that flaky, crisp exterior, but you could substitute with crescent roll dough in a pinch. The texture will be different but still delicious, with a slightly softer and breadier feel.
Can Creamy Cherry Strudel be made ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the strudel a few hours in advance and keep it chilled (covered) in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Hold off on the egg wash until just before baking for the best shine and finish.
How do I keep my strudel from getting soggy?
Be sure to thoroughly drain any excess liquid from your cherry filling if making it from scratch, and avoid overfilling the strudel. Baking until the pastry is deeply golden ensures a crisp base that stands up to the creamy, juicy filling.
Can I add other fruits or flavors?
Definitely! Try swapping in blueberries or raspberries, or add a dash of almond extract to the cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Small bits of dark chocolate or toasted nuts also make excellent additions for a creative twist on Creamy Cherry Strudel.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your friends and family—or just treat yourself—give this Creamy Cherry Strudel a try. With its beautifully braided appearance, dreamy filling, and crisp golden crust, it’s a dessert that brings both comfort and a little luxury to every table. Let the oven do the magic, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!
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Creamy Cherry Strudel Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Creamy Cherry Strudel, a heavenly treat featuring flaky puff pastry enveloping a luscious cream cheese and cherry filling. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Prepare the pastry: Unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and roll it slightly. Spread the cream cheese mixture down the center third of the pastry.
- Add cherry filling: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese.
- Create a braided effect: Cut slits on both sides of the pastry and fold the strips over the filling in a crisscross pattern.
- Brush with egg wash: Whisk the egg with milk and brush the top of the pastry.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and serve: Let cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and slice.
Notes
- For a tart twist, use fresh or frozen sour cherries with a bit of sugar instead of canned pie filling.
- Refrigerate leftovers and reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
